Foreigners still cannot own land outright in Cambodia. But the 2019 Trust Law has changed the game. By early 2025, more than $1.7 billion had already been invested through trust structures. Around 90% of that capital went into real estate. As Cambodia’s economy is projected to grow by more than 5% in 2025, this legal framework is now playing a key role in property recovery.
The keyword shaping this shift is Cambodia trust law property ownership. In 2026, it has become the standard legal route for foreign investors seeking control over landed assets.
How Cambodia Trust Law Property Ownership Works
Under Cambodia’s legal system, foreigners cannot directly hold land titles. The 2019 Trust Law introduced a compliant workaround. Licensed trustees—either trust companies or certified individuals—can legally hold the land title on behalf of foreign investors. The foreign buyer remains the beneficial owner, while the trustee holds the legal title.
This structure replaces older nominee arrangements, which carried legal risks and weak protection. Trusts are now the preferred model because they are transparent and regulated. They also allow resale flexibility and stronger legal standing.
In practice, a licensed trust company conducts due diligence on the property. It checks land status, zoning rules, and potential disputes. Once verified, the trust is structured. The investor pays a one-time setup fee. Ongoing management fees apply for administration and compliance. The trustee holds the title securely while the investor controls the economic rights.
By 2026, trust companies have become central to Cambodia trust law property ownership. They manage land titles professionally and ensure compliance with national regulations. This clarity has boosted investor confidence.
The numbers support this trend. Over five years leading to February 2025, more than $1.7 billion flowed into Cambodia via trusts. With 90% allocated to property, real estate clearly dominates the structure. This is not a small niche product. It is now a major capital channel.
Trusts also align with broader economic growth. Cambodia’s projected GDP expansion above 5% in 2025 reflects rising business activity. Real estate investment through trusts contributes to this momentum. The framework gives foreigners a secure way to participate in land-based projects without breaking ownership rules.
One of the biggest impacts can be seen in Sihanoukville.
For several years, Sihanoukville faced stalled developments and unfinished projects. Foreign-led investment slowed. Confidence weakened. But the growing adoption of trust structures is helping to stabilize the market.
Investors now see a safer path to control landed property. Trusts provide a freehold-like structure compared to long-term leases. While the legal title sits with a licensed trustee, the beneficial ownership gives investors economic control and resale rights. This difference matters.
As trust usage expands into 2026, Sihanoukville is experiencing renewed interest. Coastal land, mixed-use projects, and hospitality assets are attracting buyers again. The revival is not driven by speculation alone. It is built on legal compliance.
Cambodia is increasingly described as a “last freehold frontier” for foreigners—because 100% beneficial ownership of land is achievable through the trust system. In a region where property rules are tightening, this stands out.
The phrase Cambodia trust law property ownership now represents more than a legal workaround. It represents a structured and regulated investment channel. The $1.7 billion invested so far shows strong adoption. The 90% allocation to real estate confirms market focus. And the projected 5%+ economic growth signals wider momentum.
By 2026, the Trust Law is no longer experimental. It is the primary mechanism foreigners use to access Cambodia’s landed property market legally. Trust companies hold titles. Investors hold rights. And markets like Sihanoukville are moving again.
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